05
Jul

7 Family Adventures in Florida

Florida has some of the best beaches in North America and has long been a favourite winter destination for Canadians. But these days, there’s so much going on all year in the Sunshine State that the best answer to the question, “When should I go?” is quite simply: as often as you can. Enjoy theme parks, astronauts, surfing lessons and more.

2. Bike Shark Valley in the Everglades

Did you know you can bike through the Everglades? There’s a 15-mile paved cycling path known as Shark Valley that winds through these vast wetlands to an observation tower and back. For a different take on The River of Grass, try an airboat tour. We’ve got lots of choices from Miami or Fort Lauderdale.

3. Swim with Manatees

These gentle giants can grow as big as 12 feet long and weigh up to 3,500 pounds, but they’re still safe to swim with even for a young swimmer. Manatees love Florida’s Crystal River and gather there from November to March. You can book a convenient, family-friendly excursion from Orlando.

4. Innertube the Ichetcuknee

There’s nothing quite like lazing down a refreshing river and Ichetucknee Springs State Park in North Central Florida is one of the best. It’s safe, well organized and offers you a close-up view of some spectacular wildlife. We have 37 hotels in nearby Jacksonville so you’re bound to find something to fit your style and budget.

5. Learn to Ride the Atlantic Blue Crush

Did you know you can learn to surf in Florida? Head to Fort Pierce, about an hour south of Cocoa Beach, for dependable waves that are just the right size for beginners. There are quite a few surf schools as well as rental outlets. Catch the life-size wave and surfboard sculpture at Cocoa Beach Pier, a thrill without the spills.

6. Lunch with an Astronaut

Who didn’t want to be an astronaut when they were a kid? At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex you can actually have lunch with one of these heroes, like John Glenn, Jim Lovell, Story Musgrave, or Jon McBride. Enjoy a buffet lunch with 30 to 100 other visitors as you listen to one of these great space travellers. Ask questions, shake their hand, get an autograph and a picture. The Space Centre is on Florida’s central east coast, not far from Orlando or Cocoa Beach.

7. Theatre of the Sea in the Florida Keys

If sea creatures are on your must-see list, then Miami and the Florida Keys are your destinations. Theatre of the Sea in Islamorada lets you swim with rays, sea lions, and dolphins in a salt-water lagoon. The Miami Seaquarium has unforgettable dolphin encounters and helmet diving that lets you get up close to an amazing tropical reef exhibit.